System and method for distributing perishable items

Abstract

A system for distributing perishable items is described. The system incorporates producers and manufacturers. These deliver their products to distribution points. An end-user of the system places an order through a custom interface specifying both a specific time and location for pick-up. Before the pick-up, the producer or manufacturer delivers the item to the pick-up location. The system uses a data exchange system that communicates user orders from the end-user interfaces to the producers, manufacturers, and distribution points and schedules perishable items for pick-up at the distribution points.

The embodiment of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed is defined as follows: 
     
         1 . A system for distributing perishable items comprising:
 at least one producer of items;   zero or more manufacturers of items, wherein said manufacturers convert source materials from said producers;   at least one distribution point wherein said at least one producer and zero or more manufacturers deliver perishable items to said distribution points;   at least one end user interface which allows for purchasing of a perishable item for pick-up at a particular distribution point at a particular time; and   a data exchange system which communicates user orders from the end user interface to said producers, manufacturers, and distribution points and schedules perishable items for pick-up at the distribution points.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said at least one distribution point comprises a vending device where end users retrieve items by presenting a unique identifier. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said at least one distribution point comprises temperature controlled compartments allowing for both heating and cooling of contents thereof. 
     
     
         4 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said end user interface is shown on a general purpose computing device. 
     
     
         5 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said perishable items are temperature sensitive and have a limited window of freshness. 
     
     
         6 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said at least one distribution point is in communication with one or more additional dispensers. 
     
     
         7 . The system of  claim 6  wherein one of said additional dispensers comprises a fresh juice dispenser. 
     
     
         8 . The system of  claim 6  wherein one of said additional dispensers comprises a coffee dispenser. 
     
     
         9 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said at least one distribution point further comprises a wireless signal reader to open compartments within said distribution point without physical contact. 
     
     
         10 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said distribution point further comprises at least one disinfection method. 
     
     
         11 . The system of  claim 10  wherein said disinfection method comprises a light source emitting U.V. radiation. 
     
     
         12 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said user interface is shown on a multi-purpose computing device. 
     
     
         13 . The system of  claim 1  wherein said data exchange system includes a suggestion engine providing recommendations to end users, and manufacturers.